ABSTRACT
There is now a broad consensus of opinion that recognises that the misuse of psychoactive substances is, and will continue to be, a part of society. Many individuals are unable or lack the readiness to change to be drug-free but none the less could benefit from intervention. The thinking of the ‘unthinkable’ approach has brought a sea change in the policy and strategy in tackling alcohol and drug misuse. An open-door policy can result in a harm reduction snowball effect: small improvements can pave the path for further reduction of drug use and an improved lifestyle in other ways. This snowball effect can continue, eventually, to the point of abstinence (Westermeyer 2002).
